Bimmers Garage

BMW 3-series combats challengers

2012-01-11T12:47:00.003-06:00

BMW’s 3-Series has dominated the compact sport sedan market for so long that its base paint job should be white with red concentric circles to show it as a target for other carmakers.

The 3-Series has been on Car and Driver Magazine’s annual Ten Best list every year since time immemorial, and every year competitors announce the introduction of their challenger to the sport sedan throne.

At the Detroit auto show this week Cadillac rolled out the latest contender — the Cadillac ATS, complete with video of the car’s development in BMW’s backyard, the Nurburgring race track in Germany.

But every year the Bavarians turn back the would-be usurpers.

“The 3-Series has a long history,” product manager Oliver Ganser said. “The ATS is just one of many competitors who try to take on the 3-Series.”

BMW’s response? Only hours after Cadillac showed the ATS, BMW unveiled the 2012 3-Series, a car meant to reinforce BMW’s traditional strengths while shoring up some potential weaknesses. And it’s faster than its predecessor. Among the regular models (not the M3 hyper-performance version), 0-60 acceleration is now down to 5.7 seconds.

It’s also roomier and more fuel efficient, including turbochargers, an 8-speed automatic transmission and automatic engine stop/start. The EcoPro driving mode not only trims power to save fuel, the car also actively coaches the driver on how to drive to burn less gas.

Slideshow: slideshow=

Mike Cassese / Reuters

Upscale sedans, fuel-efficient electric cars – and old-school muscle cars – make their debuts at the 2012 North American International Auto show.

Launch slideshow

That feature is important because no matter how much fuel-saving tech a manufacturer puts on a car, the fuel economy can be spoiled by a lead-footed driver.

“The driver is one of the main factors in deciding fuel economy,” Ganser tactfully noted.

Ganser said his personal record commuting in the new car in New Jersey is 42 mpg, but the EPA highway rating is 36 mpg. Meanwhile, the new car is bigger too, with more room in the back seat and trunk.

All of this makes a convincing case for BMW’s defense of the realm. But the real reason the 3-series has long remained the sport sedan benchmark has been its peerless steering feel and accuracy, with composed, responsive handling.

If the company has preserved those aspects while continuing to heap on improvements to satisfy Internet flame warriors, the throne should be safe from Cadillac and the other pretenders.

2012 Detroit: 2012 BMW ActiveHybrid 3 coming later this year

2012-01-11T12:46:00.003-06:00

BMW added another addition to its alternative powertrain options and has fully unveiled it earlier today at 2012 North American International Auto Show.

For the first time ever, the BMW 3-Series gets a hybrid powertrain. Of course, most purists and even regular BMW enthusiasts would think that this is absolute blasphemous. And it is because I would personally agree. But the times are changing and this is BMW’s answer to help reduce their CAFE rating, which would help quite a bit considering that the 3-Series is their most successful model.

Click here for more news on the BMW 3-Series.

To keep us driving enthusiasts interested, the ActiveHybrid 3 comes standard with the same engine as the new 335i: a 3.0L turbocharged TwinPower Turbo straight-six that churns out 300hp. It’s mated to an all new ZF 8-speedautomatic transmission that also is hooked up to an electric motor that produces 55hp. The total amount using simple mathematics would result in 355hp. But according to BMW’s figures, we assume that they factored in some powertrain loss and rated the ActiveHybrid 3 at just 335hp and 330 lb-ft of torque.

The hybrid system is expected to give the ActiveHybrid 3 an EPA figure that hovers around the average of 36 mpg. Official EPA figures have yet to be released. Additionally, the system allows the ActiveHybrid 3 to travel on just electric power for roughly 2 to 2.5 miles at speed of up to 37 mph.

Pricing will be announced later on.

Photos of BMW 3-Series M Sport with M Performance Accessories at private event

2012-01-11T12:45:00.005-06:00

We've already seen the touched up press photos of the BMW 3-Series (F30) M Sport package plus some live photos lurking around the web. However, by way of some sneaked mobile phone snaps we have something new to look at.

Taken during a dealer's presentation event for BMW M Performance Accessories, we can see a 335i M Sport with an M Performance Accessories package which includes 19-inch wheels, racing stripe, fully painted rear bumper including the diffuser section, high-gloss black kidney grilles and a carbon fiber splitter on the front bumper fascia.
Other items that are most likely included on the car but not seen in the photos are revised side skirts, carbon fiber mirror housings, a sport-tuned suspension and a high-performance braking system.
M Performance Accessories inside most likely include a flat-bottom steering wheel, carbon fiber / Alcantara trim and special floor mats.
Hopefully, with this dealer event taking place an official announcement will be released soon.

BMW wins U.S. luxury sales crown

2012-01-11T12:45:00.004-06:00

Lexus' reign as the best-selling luxury brand in the United States has come to an end after 11 years.

Plagued by production problems resulting from March's earthquake and tsunami, the brand's sales declined by 13 percent to 198,552 units for 2011.

BMW, on the other hand, saw their sales increase 13 percent to 247,907 units. This earns them the title as the best-selling luxury automaker in America.

Despite the impressive finish, it was a relatively close race as BMW edged out Mercedes by just 2,715 vehicles. Interestingly, the two brands battled on the incentive front and outspent discount-loving Cadillac by $400 to $1000+.

Source: Automotive News

2013 BMW X6 Facelift caught cold weather testing

2012-01-11T12:44:00.002-06:00

It's been a while since we last saw prototypes of the 2013 BMW X6 facelift. Now spy photographers have caught it for the first time during cold weather testing in and around Arjeplog, Sweden.

Changes include front and rear bumper fascias, new internal headlamp design with LED DRL corona rings, redesigned kidney grilles with new slats and wider surround bezel, and new LED design tail lamps.
The petrol engines will likely carryover, but rumors suggest a new tri-turbo 3.0-liter six-cylinder diesel in a potential X6 xDrive50d could be added to the lineup. It is expected to produce 350 PS (258 kW / 345 hp) to 400 PS (294 kW / 395 hp). Stepping it up to an M treatment renders the X6 M50d with 381 PS (280 kW / 375 hp) and 740 Nm (546 lb-ft) of torque. This could enable the crossover to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds.
The X6 facelift is expected to be launched in March this year as a 2013 model.

BMW M5 with six-speed manual confirmed

2012-01-11T12:43:00.002-06:00

After months of speculation, BMW has confirmed plans to offer a six-speed manual on the US-spec M5.

Cited as a "popular choice" on the previous model, the six-speed manual will be available as a no-cost option when the new M5 is launched this summer. Specifications were not released, but the gearbox has a short throw linkage and optimized ratios for outstanding acceleration and fuel efficiency.

As we have previously reported, the M5 is powered by a twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 with 560 PS (412 kW / 552 hp) and 680 Nm (502 lb-ft) of torque. When connected to a seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission, the car accelerates from 0-100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.4 seconds and hits a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) or 305 km/h (190 mph) with the M Driver's Package.

Source: BMW USA

2012 BMW ActiveHybrid 5 pricing announced in Detroit

2012-01-11T12:42:00.000-06:00

BMW announced at the North American International Auto Show the new 2012 BMW ActiveHybrid 5 will have a MSRP of $61,845 (including the $895 Destination and Handling charge).

First seen as the BMW Concept 5-Series ActiveHybrid at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show, the vehicle is based on the BMW 535i Sedan and features the 3.0 liter twin-turbo unit with 302 hp (306 PS / 225 kW) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque, along with a 55 bhp (56 PS / 40 kW) electric motor that also produces 155 lb-ft (210 Nm) of torque. The electric motor is integrated into the housing for the eight-speed automatic transmission. Combined, the drivetrain is configured to deliver a maximum output of 335 hp (340 PS / 250 kW) and 332 lb-ft (450 Nm) of torque.
The lithium-ion battery pack provides the ActiveHybrid 5 with an all-electric range of up to four kilometers (2.5 miles) at an average speed of 22 mph (35 km/h). The car can also reach 37 mph (60 km/h) in all-electric mode for a brief time. The 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) sprint on the ActiveHybrid 5 takes 5.9 seconds (0-60 mph in 5.7).
The car features an auto stop/start system and, in ECO PRO mode, the ActiveHybrid 5 can also coast with the engine shut off at speeds of up to 100 mph (160 km/h).
For the exterior, the ActiveHybrid 5 is distinguished by a revised grille, special badging and matte chrome tailpipes. Customers can also order exclusive Bluewater metallic paint and 18-inch "Streamline" alloy wheels.
Inside, the cabin is equipped with additional standard equipment, special door sill plates and an aluminum "ActiveHybrid 5" badge on the center console.
Finalized fuel-economy figures in the US have not been released yet but Car & Driver estimates 23/34 mpg (city/highway) which translates much lower than the averaged range announced for Europe: 6.4 to 7.0 L/100 km (44 - 40 mpg imp / 36.7 - 33.6 mpg US) while having CO2 emissions between 149 and 163 g/km.
The 2012 BMW ActiveHybrid 5 is scheduled to arrive late Spring 2012 in the US.

BMW reports record sales  in Middle East; UAE on top

2012-01-11T12:40:00.002-06:00

DUBAI - BMW Middle East said last year was the most successful year in the Group’s history in terms of regional sales as the German automobile company sales jumped by nine per cent in the region.

The company reported record sales for both new and pre-used BMW cars in the region for 2011 and said the UAE contributed 47 per cent of the regional sales across 14 markets in the Middle East. Three new models will be launched in the first half of 2012, Dr Joerg Breuer, managing director, BMW Group Middle East, told reporters at a news conference on Tuesday.

With a total of 18,657 BMW and MINI vehicles delivered to customers across 14 Middle East markets, the company’s year-end results clearly demonstrate the continued strength of both brands in the region - with most of its importers reporting an increase in sales in 2011 and a number of markets recording a double-digit growth.

The UAE remained the biggest market, accounting for 47 per cent of BMW Group Middle East’s 2011 sales. Abu Dhabi was the highest volume selling market, with a 23 per cent growth and 4,436 cars sold while Dubai also witnessed an increase of 23 per cent with 4,395 cars sold. Other top performing markets included Qatar by 26 per cent (1,265 cars), Saudi Arabia, with a 2 per cent sales increase (3,072 cars) and Kuwait and Bahrain both with a 6 per cent increase. Also among the markets with the biggest growth were Yemen and Pakistan with 37 per cent and 27 per cent growth respectively.

“The Middle East is enjoying robust growth across all sectors of the automotive industry, with the luxury segment in particular growing substantially. These market factors coupled with the commitment of our importer partners and the launch of seven beautifully-designed and technologically-advanced new models during 2011, have helped drive our 9 per cent sales growth,” Dr Breuer said.

The company’s flagship BMW 7 Series remained the highest volume selling model with 4,511 cars sold. The BMW 5 Series also showed growth with 4,286 cars sold and a 30 per cent increase. The other best selling BMW models included the X6 Sports Activity Coupé (2,620 cars), X5 Sports Activity Vehicle (2,510 cars) and the BMW 3 Series (2,033 cars).

“We will see some exciting new models added to our portfolio that will include the all-new BMW 3 Series and the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupé. There will also be another addition to the MINI family – the MINI Roadster will both add an exciting new dimension to the brand’s portfolio and will help contribute to the growth of the BMW Group brands in the region,” he said.

MINI recorded another year of exceptional sales, achieving a 77 per cent growth in 2011 across eight Middle East markets and sales of 1,108 cars – the strongest growth ever since the brand was launched in the Middle East eleven years ago, and an impressive achievement when operating in a market that predominantly favours large, luxury cars. In the UAE, Dubai was the biggest MINI market, with an increase of 164 per cent (493 cars) while Abu Dhabi saw growth of 63 per cent (196 cars).

Breuer added, “It has been a great 12 months and we anticipate that 2012 will be as successful for BMW Group in the Middle East.”

Pre-owned cars

Another area of the business that saw growth for BMW Group Middle East was BMW Premium Selection, the company’s pre-owned programme that offers customers the same peace-of-mind motoring as if they were purchasing a new BMW. The best year since the programme launched in 2007, 2,761 BMW vehicles were sold through the programme in eight markets, representing an increase of 140 per cent on the previous year.

2014 BMW M4 speculatively rendered

2012-01-01T18:45:00.000-06:00

As numerous reports suggest, it remains to be seen if BMW will rename the M3 Coupe as the M4. Regardless of what they call it, graphic designer Jacek Kolodziejczyk (aka Iacoski) has created a set of renderings portraying what he thinks the hotly anticipate M division vehicle will look like.

Using the new BMW 3-Series (F30) sedan as his foundation, Iacoski has created a very plausible proposal by taking all of the familiar M design characterisics and skillfuly integrating them into the F30 as a coupe.

Notable details include the front bumper fascia design with built-in lower lip spoiler, blacked out grille, fender vents/M indicator lamp, side mirrors, scalloped side skirts, moderately flared wheel arches and muscular rear bumper design topped off by those signature quad exhaust pipes which look like a bunch of grenade launchers. The large flat graphite colored wheels add the final sporting touch.

Following the release of the 3-Series Coupe (possibly named 4-Series) in 2013. The M version (possibly named M4) would arrive a year later in 2014.

Speculation is rife as to which engine will be implanted. Just like the M5 going from V10 to twin-turbo V8, the same downsizing is expected for the current M3's V8 engine. Utilization of a six-cylinder engine is obvious, as well as the use of turbocharging, which currently permeates the entire BMW line-up, but whether it will be inline 6, V6, single turbo, bi-turbo or even tri-turbo is the big mystery.

One thing we do know is that the M3 (or M4) will do away with the torque vectoring differential, which can send varying amount of power to individual wheels, in favor of an electronically controlled differential similar to that found in the M5 (F10). This information comes by way of Road & Track magazine in an interview with M division head of product development, Albert Biermann.

Source: iacoski.com via bmwblog.com

Read more: http://www.worldcarfans.com/111123039350/2014-bmw-m4-speculatively-rendered#ixzz1iG0aMDsT

BMW M3 CRT fastest M car at Sachsenring

2012-01-01T18:44:00.000-06:00

M5 faster than M3 and 1M

If you're a BMW M fan, German print magazine Autobild has put together the mother of all comparisons. Autobild has taken all current BMW M models and set them all against each other on the Sachsenring in Germany. Called "Fascination M" the comparo reconfirms the obvious while uncovering a few surprises.

Starting with the obvious, the M3 CRT (E90) is the fastest M Car Autobild has ever tested on the Sachsenring. But vaguely surprising was that the new M5 (F10) in all of its heft was only three hundredths of a second slower, but two seconds faster than the 1M coupe (E82) in third place.

In a surprising fourth place is the M3 coupe (E92) which beat out the M3 sedan (E90) by one tenth of a second.

The M3 convertible (E93) was just over two seconds slower than the sedan while the X6M and X5M (E70) were only one tenth apart. However, in another surprising twist, both SAVs outperformed the previous generation M5 (E60) - yes, by a fraction of a second but nonetheless, they were faster.

Check out the times in the chart below. It should be noted that the M3 GTS (E92) which tops them all is not counted because it is no longer available.

For further comparison, Autobild included times for the Porsche Panamera Turbo S and Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG with performance package.

Autobild Shootout	Sachsenring lap time
BMW M3 GTS (on semi-slicks)	1:37.30
BMW M3 CRT	1:38.87
BMW F10 M5 (driven by Claudia Hürtgen. Other cars were driven by Autobild drivers)	1:38.90
BMW 1M Coupe	1:40.18
BMW M3 Coupe DCT	1:40.52
BMW M3 Sedan DCT	1:40.60
BMW M3 Convertible DCT	1:42.63
BMW X6 M	1:43.67
BMW X5 M	1:43.72
BMW E60 M5	1:43.77

F10 M5 Competition	Sachsenring lap time
Porsche Panamera Turbo S	1:38.13
BMW F10 M5	1:38.90
Mercedes E63 AMG PP	1:40.59

Source: Autobild via 5post.com

Read more: http://www.worldcarfans.com/111122839314/bmw-m3-crt-fastest-m-car-at-sachsenring---autobild#ixzz1iG0PL6gO

BMW 5-Series F10 body styling by Prior Design

2012-01-01T18:43:00.001-06:00

Prior Design has released first photos of their completed body kit design for the BMW 5-Series F10.

First previewed back in April, the final version looks quite different than the initial design renderings which took an obvious influence from the BMW M3. However, perhaps it's better Prior Design took a different direction and came up with something more original.

The kit consists of a front spoiler, side skirts, rear diffusor and carbon fiber roof spoiler. A cat back exhaust system with M3-style quad exhaust pipes adds the final touch.

We're sure this isn't the last we hear from Prior Design in regard to the 5-Series F10. We expect another more dramatic package to be released eventually.

BMW 1 Series. Production plant.

2012-01-01T18:42:00.002-06:00

Have a look at the BMW plant in Regensburg, Germany and see the production of the new BMW 1 Series.

BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe on the street looking real

2012-01-01T18:41:00.001-06:00

Sometimes a photo of a vehicle on the street in the light of day can capture its essence more so than the glossy heavily edited high-resolution shots that auto manufacturers send out to the media. And here's a good example as German BMW enthusiast site BimmerToday has caught first images of the new BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe parked on the street.

As you may recall, the new BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe has a price of €79,500 in Germany starting with the base model 640i Gran Coupe. The 6-Series Gran Coupe will battle with the Audi A7 Sportback and Mercedes CLS when it is launched despite pricing much higher. The Gran Coupe measures 4.4 inches (111 mm) longer than the 6-Series Coupe and the exterior styling is instantly recognizable.

Inside, the cabin is luxuriously appointed with Dakota leather, heated front seats and dual-zone automatic climate control. There's also a "4+1" seating arrangement and a boot that holds 460 liters (16.2 cubic feet) of luggage. Options include ceramic accents, GPS navigation and a Bang & Olufsen audio system. PHOTOS

BMW 1 Series 3-door hatchback designs exposed

2012-01-01T18:40:00.003-06:00

We already know what the all-new BMW 1-Series looks likes as a 5-door hatch but how about a 3-door? Well thanks to Chinese portal site sohu.com for exposing these patent/trademark designs, we now have a good idea - just in case the spy photos weren't good enough.

Looking quite elongated, the B-pillar is pulled back and angled towards the rear while the absence of the rear door makes it look like a borderline shooting brake. The arcing roof combined with the arcing side glass also enhances the effect even more.

According to previous report, BMW will offer the 1-Series in a total of six different body variants divided into two different build architectures. The 1-Series 3-door hatch is expected to arrive summer of next year.

Source: sohu.com

Read more: http://www.worldcarfans.com/111122839316/bmw-1-series-3-door-hatchback-designs-exposed#ixzz1iFzPmCRx

BMW 6 gains two doors

2011-12-12T16:22:00.000-06:00

Joining the four-door coupe trend pioneered by the Mercedes-Benz CLS 550, BMW adds rear doors to its 6-series, calling it a Gran Coupe.

At first glance, the 6-series Gran Coupe seems an odd overlap with the 7-series. BMW says the Gran Coupe fills a niche, being a car for buyers who want the sporty look of the 6-series, but also want a usable rear seat.

Normal rear doors give access to the rear seat, which will only hold two adults comfortably. BMW calls the seating configuration 4+1, as the hump in the middle of the rear bench is too prominent for long term comfort. Unlike the Audi A7 and Porsche Panamera, the new Gran Coupe employs a conventional trunk lid rather than a hatchback.

Rather than using the 6-series Gran Coupe to showcase new technologies, BMW fits it with its latest engines, cabin electronics, and driver assistance systems. The base model, and the first to go on sale, will be the 640i Gran Coupe, using BMW's excellent direct injection and turbocharged 3-liter inline six cylinder engine. With tweaked power and an eight speed automatic transmission, BMW says this version hits 62 mph in 5.4 seconds.

Following will be rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive V-8 versions, using the 650i designation. With its 445 horsepower, that version of the Gran Coupe will get to 62 mph in just 4.6 seconds. These engine configurations follow those of BMW's large cars.

BMW offered a laundry list of driver assistance features for the Gran Coupe, including night vision with pedestrian detection, its new full color head-up display, and LED headlights with adaptive cornering. The navigation system and cabin electronics will also be of the current generation from BMW, which includes integrated Google local search and app integration through iPhone.

As the production version of the Gran Coupe goes on sale next year, we expect to see it at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show in January. PHOTOS

BMW X6 xDrive40d warmed over by Senner Tuning

2011-12-05T16:45:00.000-06:00

German tuning firm Senner Tuning AG has performed a subtle tuning transformation on an Alpine White 2010 BMW X6 xDrive40d. This diesel model is only available in Europe at the moment.

Starting with the bi-turbo 3.0-liter engine which produces 306 PS (302 bhp/ 225 kW) and 600 Nm (443 lb-ft) in standard form, the firm from Ingelheim has reprogrammed the ECU and added a sport air filter. The result is the removal of the Vmax-lock and power output increasing to 336 PS (331 bhp / 247 kW) and 665 Nm (490 lb-ft) of torque.
The exterior is equipped with ? BMW Performance front bumper with large air intakes in the honeycomb design, glossy black kidney grilles and a rear bumoer diffuser with "special" fins. Also, the tailgate gets a trio of black rear spoilers two of which are placed on the sides of the rear glass.
Footwear is provided by Hamann with their Anniversary EVO Black Line wheels of 10.5 x 22 inch with 295/30R22 tires at the front and 12 x 22 inch with 335/30R22 tires Continental Sport Contact 5P at the rear. Bilstein B8 shocks and springs with 25/20 mm lowering feature are also included. Finally, even the tinted rear window and rear bumper corners are partially painted in body color.
The interior provides a new pedal set including an X6M footrest in addition to the Power Converter which provides advanced throttle response.
Senner Tuning has priced the entire package at approximately €20,000.00 depending on the wheel types selected.

PHOTOS

BMW X6 M50d teased?

2011-12-05T16:38:00.002-06:00

BMW has released a new teaser video which appears to show an upcoming X6 M.
No details were released, but speculation suggests the model is the X6 M50d. If this is the case, we can expect the crossover to feature a tri-turbo 3.0-liter diesel engine with 381 PS (280 kW / 375 hp) and 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque.
Regardless of what it is, the strategic blurring suggests the model will receive new LED head- and taillights.

Official: BMW to supply diesel engines to Toyota

2011-12-04T13:24:00.005-06:00

Automotive giants agree to Mid-to-long-term Research Collaboration in Environment-friendly Technologies

BMW and Toyota have officially announced today they have signed a memorandum of understanding for a research collaboration into next generation environmental friendly technologies, confirming rumours that we reported on earlier this week.

Toyota Motor Europe (TME) will benefit from the supply of BMW's fuel efficient yet powerful 1.6 liter and 2.0 liter diesel engines. The German automaker will begin supply in 2014.

Norbert Reithofer, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG, said: "Toyota is the leading provider of environment-friendly series technology in the volume segment and the BMW Group is the most innovative and sustainable manufacturer of premium automobiles. We are now joining forces to further develop environment-friendly technologies and to expand our innovation leadership in each of our segments. Supplying Toyota with our fuel efficient and dynamic diesel engines represents another important step in the planned expansion of our sales activities for engines and powertrain system."

Toyota, President Akio Toyoda said: "It is a great joy and a thrill to enter into this mid-to-long-term collaborative relationship with BMW, a company with its own culture and history from its many years of car manufacturing in Europe, and a company that makes cars that are fun to drive. In the spirit of contributing to furthering the development of the auto industry and society, both companies will bring their wide-ranging knowledge-starting with that concerning environmental technologies-to the table and make ever-better cars."

Source: BMW Toyota

Read more: http://www.worldcarfans.com/111120138660/official-bmw-to-supply-diesel-engines-to-toyota#ixzz1faz6ZlVv

2012 BMW Alpina B6 Bi-Turbo Coupe

2011-12-01T09:15:00.006-06:00

4.4 liter twin-turbo V8 now develops an output of 540 PS (397 kW / 533 hp) and 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque.

German automaker BMW Alpina has unveiled the 2012 B6 Bi-Turbo Coupe.

The B6 Bi-Turbo Coupe features the aluminum twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8, equipped with MAHLE pistons and a high-performance cooling system, which now develops an output of 540 PS (397 kW / 533 hp) and 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque. That's 33 more horsepower than on the recently announced B6 Bi-Turbo Cabriolet.

With the help of a revised eight-speed automatic transmission and a titanium exhaust system from Akrapovic, the 0 to 100km/h sprint takes just 4.4 seconds and top speed is 320 km/h.

The B6 Bi-Turbo Coupe also comes with an aerodynamic kit that includes a front spoiler with the integrated carbon fiber front splitter and a rear spoiler with an optional rear wing.

For the suspension, the B6 Bi-Turbo features Drive Performance Control (electronically adjustable dampers) and Dynamic Drive (active roll stabilization) as standard.

Wheels are the 20-inch Alpina Classic rims fitted with Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires.

For the interior the car gets a sport steering wheel hand-stitched in Lavalina leather, blue illuminated entry sills with logo and a trim in the classic Alpina myrtle wood. PHOTOS

Source: Alpina

G-Power X6 M Typhoon wide-body with 725 HP

2011-12-01T09:13:00.003-06:00

German tuner offers a wide-body version of this super-powered SUV that features an aerodynamic kit with plenty of needed venting

German tuner G-Power has a new wide-body kit for the BMW X6 M.

The power-tuning, wheels and suspension package is the same as on the previous G-Power X6 M Typhoon S. New here is the wide-body kit made from PU RIM that features new front spoiler and skirt, flared wheel arches, side skirts with LED lights, rear skirt, rear diffuser, two spoilers fixed to the rear hatch, a roof spoiler and a multi-piece rear spoiler with carbon wing.

The body kit adds about 15 percent more cooling to the X6 M and also includes the G-Power Venturi hood featuring hood-vents with dynamic venting.

Wheel are the 23-inch Silverstone RS alloy rims with Michelin performance tires, same as on the previous X6 M Typhoon S, as is the 30 mm suspension lowering.

To reiterate G-Power's output boosting - the twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 gets a remapped ECU, a stainless steel sport exhaust system, new exhaust manifolds and new connection pipes between the turbochargers and the cylinder heads that raise power to 725 PS (533 kW / 715 hp) and 890 Nm (656 lb-ft) of torque - an increase of 170 PS (125 kW / 168 hp) and 210 Nm (155 lb-ft) over the standard model. The 0-100 km/h sprint takes place in 4.2 seconds and top speed is in excess of 300 km/h (186 mph). PHOTOS

Source: G-Power

2012 BMW Alpina BMW B3 GT3

2011-12-01T09:12:00.002-06:00

German tuner/automaker creates a B3 GT3 with 408 PS (300 kW / 402 hp) and 540 Nm (398 lb-ft) of torque

Alpina has introduced the BMW Alpina B3 GT3.

Using the same twin-turbo 3.0 liter inline six-cylinder unit from the Alpina B3 S Bi-Turbo, the B3 GT3 gets a modified exhaust system and a new rear silencer that boosts output by 8 PS (6 kW / 8 hp) over the standard engine with maximum power now rated at 408 PS (300 kW / 402 hp) and 540 Nm (398 lb-ft) of torque. The B3 GT3 also features a titanium rear silencer with double 115 mm tailpipes from Akrapovic.

The 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) sprint takes 4.6 seconds.

Wheels are the Alpina GT3 CLASSIC 19-inch lightweight alloy wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport 2 tires for the road or Michelin Pilot Sport Cup+ tires for the track. The B3 GT3 also comes with a race-bred coilover sport suspension.

For the front end aerodynamics is a carbon fiber front splitter mounted under the front spoiler and dive plates mounted on the side of the front valence. At the rear is a diffuser and a carbon wing.

Inside is a black finish in leather and Alcantara and Recaro sports seats.

The B3 GT3 will be a limited-edition model with only 99 units being made available. The green/blue/silver livery (full-body vinyl wrap) from the official B6 GT3 racer with a complementary interior trim in green lacquer will be offered as optional.

The B3 GT3 goes on sale in the spring of 2012 with prices set at approximately €90,000, including 19% VAT in Germany.

Source: BMW Alpina

Read more: http://www.worldcarfans.com/111113038635/2012-bmw-alpina-bmw-b3-gt3#ixzz1fIQ8I7o2

2013 BMW M6 (F13) rendered

2011-12-01T09:10:00.003-06:00

As previously seen in numerous spy photos, BMW is busy developing the next generation M6. It may not have gone according to plan so far (see here and here), but that is hardly going to calm the anticipation. So to whet your appetite a little further, here is sexy rendering by Duron Automotive Artwork.

Much of the technology found beneath the exterior of the 2013 BMW M6 comes from the current M5. Power will be generated from the same twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 power unit, although the output of 560 PS (412 kW / 552 hp) is likely going to be closer to 600 PS on the M6. Add in the seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission and we should be seeing a 0-100 km/h (62 mph) time of less than 4.5 second and a top speed of 300kph.

Keep an eye on WCF for further news on the 2013 M6 (F13). In the meantime, why not tell us what you think of this rendering in the comments below?

Source: duronautomotiveartwork via BMWblog

BMW ActiveHybrid 5 unveiled in Tokyo

2011-12-01T09:09:00.002-06:00

BMW hasn't had the best of luck with their hybrid lineup, so the company is hoping for better success with the new ActiveHybrid 5.

Recently unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show, the car features a lithium-ion battery, a 306 PS (225 kW / 302 hp) turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine and a 56 PS (40 kW / 55 hp) electric motor. This gives the AH5 a combined maximum output of 340 PS (250 kW / 335 hp) and 450 Nm (332 lb-ft) of torque.

The powertrain is connected to an eight-speed automatic transmission which enables the car to accelerate from 0-100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.9 seconds. Depending on which tires are selected, owners can expect to average between 6.4 and 7.0 L/100 km (44 - 40 mpg imp / 36.7 - 33.6 mpg US) while having CO2 emissions of 149 and 163 g/km.

On the styling front, the ActiveHybrid 5 is distinguished by a revised grille, special badging and matte chrome tailpipes. Customers can also order exclusive Bluewater metallic paint and 18-inch "Streamline" alloy wheels.

Inside, the cabin is equipped with additional standard equipment, special door sill plates and an aluminum "ActiveHybrid 5" badge on the center console.

Source: BMW

Read more: http://www.worldcarfans.com/111113038625/bmw-activehybrid-5-unveiled-in-tokyo#ixzz1fIPQfLxX

2012 BMW Z4 By Anabolicar Magazine

2011-11-30T10:27:00.003-06:00

Anabolicar Magazine is one of Germany’s biggest supercar magazines so obviously, they had to have a presence at the just finished 2011 Essen Motor Show. What we didn’t know was that they were bringing a humdinger of a project in the form of a tuned-up BMW Z4.

The show car, which was built specifically for the purpose of displaying it at Essen, comes with plenty of aerodynamic and performance enhancements that compliments the M Package the car already has. The exterior of the Z4 is highlighted by a Green reptile skin finish that was worked on by KK-Cocoon. In addition to that, the Z4 Anabolicar also has a new KW coil-over suspension, an Eisenmann exhaust system, a lowered M-chassis, and a new set of black, 19" OZ Racing alloy wheels. Meanwhile, the modifications for the interior include new M sports seats, a new M steering wheel, and a voice activated navigation system.

Under the hood of the Z4 Anabolicar lies a 3.0-liter inline-six cylinder engine that produces 265 horsepower. All that juice wrapped up in a fancy aesthetic dress results in a sports car that stole the show at the 2011 Essen Motor Show. Then again, we really shouldn’t have expected anything less from one of Germany’s biggest supercar magazines. PHOTOS

2012 BMW 3-Series pricing announced (US)

2011-11-30T10:27:00.000-06:00

BMW has announced the 2012 3-Series will be priced from $35,795 in the United States.

Set to arrive in February, the 328i will come nicely equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission, iPod/USB/Bluetooth connectivity and a 6.5-inch iDrive display. Power is provided by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 240 hp (180 kW / 245 PS) and 260 lb-ft (352 Nm) of torque. It enables the car to accelerate from 0-60 mph in 5.7 seconds, before hitting a limited top speed of 130 mph (155 mph with Sport Line package).

The 335i, on the other hand, is priced from $43,295 and features a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six cylinder engine with 300 hp (225 kW / 306 PS) and 300 lb-ft (406 Nm) of torque. This allows the sedan to sprint from 0-60 mph in 5.4 seconds and hit a limited top speed of 130 mph (155 mph with Sport Line package).

Source: BMW

Read more: http://www.worldcarfans.com/111112338466/2012-bmw-3-series-pricing-announced-us#ixzz1fCsIO0cU